Can I Install Lighting Myself?
Real Estate In Motion | DIY is a great way to fix or create something with your own hands. However, there are some DIY circumstances in which risks ar...
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Can I Install Lighting Myself?

DIY is a great way to fix or create something with your own hands. However, there are some DIY circumstances in which risks are inherent and a professional should definitely be called instead. You never want to risk life or limb for the sake saving a few dollars when a professional can do the job quicker, safely and competently. Electricity and wiring is one specific area where calling a professional first is certainly the best approach. It is also mandated by law.

The Laws are Comprehensive


Australia has very strict and comprehensive laws concerning electrical and plumbing work. Under these laws, including the Electrical Safety Act 2002 in Queensland, electrical work requiring a professional is defined as “the manufacturing, constructing, installing, testing, maintaining, repairing, altering, removing or replacing of any electrical equipment,” whether it is for industrial, commercial or residential purposes. This includes ceiling fans, light fixtures, pool and outdoor lighting, any renovations or expansions needing electrical work, and much more – in fact almost anything other than changing a light bulb!

Violating these laws and doing the work yourself, such as installing lights, not only puts you at risk of getting hurt, it also voids any warranties on the lighting fixture and may even affect your homeowner’s insurance. It qualifies as unlicensed work, and could come with a hefty penalty of large fines or imprisonment!

Safety Concerns


These laws are in place primarily to protect people from the risks of injury or death. Seemingly innocent issues could be caused by larger, and more hazardous, conditions. Older houses especially are dangerous, due to aged and outdated wiring and fixtures. Only a licensed, qualified professional will be able to properly diagnose your electrical symptoms and fix them. You need to bring in an electrician to handle rusty or damaged wiring, flickering or dimming lights, frequently burned out or popping globes, and, most sinister, shocks or tingles coming from fixtures, switches or wires. With electrical work, things are rarely as simple as they seem. A professionally trained electrician will immediately see issues that even the best-intentioned DIY handyman won't.